Weapons and ship models

The Rijksmuseum’s collection of almost 1600 weapons is divided into four categories: firearms, cannons, suits of armour and so-called cold weapons, such as, daggers, sabres and foils. The majority was made in the Netherlands, but the museum also has a number of exotic weapons. While most of the firearms date from the 18th and 19th century, the collection counts more modern weapons as well. Many of the weapons were actually used in combat – some even by celebrated figures such as Napoleon and Michiel de Ruyter. Other pieces are richly ornamented and served a different purpose, for instance as diplomatic gifts.

The collection of more than 1800 navy related models contains some exceptional ship models, as well as a reference collection of half-block models, patent models and preliminary studies used by the Navy for building new ships and instructing its crews in the 19th century. In addition to these extensive holdings of technical scale models, there are flags, weapons, instruments and maritime curiosities.